ADHD
I specialise in ADHD and conduct disorder and I have spent many years researching this area. I am passionate about understanding how our emotions influence the way we, as individuals, behave. My PhD research was focused on the differences in behavioural problems between males and females which is an often overlooked aspect of treatment.
Every individual and situation is unique when it comes to ADHD and neurodiversity. Your symptoms and experiences will not be the same as others, which is why I take a personalised approach to treatment. I understand that each stage of the journey can be extremely overwhelming. Whether you are living with ADHD, are newly diagnosed or not yet assessed, each step comes with its own questions, and challenges.
Perhaps you are relieved that you have a diagnosis after so long, or maybe it came completely out of the blue? Either way, the most common question I hear is, what do I do now? How do I fit into the world with this new identity? Who am I?
I can help you to find answers to these questions, and uncover a way to come to terms with your diagnosis and what this means for you. I will use personalised psychological approaches to explore your struggles with you and will recognise if and when you may need medication, as well as if the medication is working. With these aspects in mind, together, we will identify your goals and create a practical approach to reach them.
Anxiety
It is completely normal to feel anxious from time to time, especially when thinking about the future or when making big life decisions. But sometimes, this fear of the future can take over and negatively impact our day to day life. Some people don’t know that they have anxiety, and for others, it can completely overwhelm them. Social anxiety and OCD anxiety are two of the most common types of anxiety that I work with.
Perhaps you feel like you don’t know how to act around other people in order to be liked or accepted. Or maybe you have recently become a mother and you are struggling with your new identity? How do you fit into the world now?
Finding the answer to these questions can feel like a mountain to climb. Together we will explore these worries and fears that are stopping you from moving forward in the way that you want. In addition, we will explore any physical symptoms that you might be experiencing with your anxiety. I can help you understand how to use certain behavioural techniques to regulate your emotions at these times. This puts you back in control.
Are you feeling stuck and fearful of the future? If you feel this way, there is something that needs to change in your life, something that is pushing you to take action. When we are unable to choose which action to take, we feel anxious. Do you need some support in deciding which direction to go in and which choice to make in order to reach your long term goals? I am here to listen and empower you to make decisions and take the lead in your own life, at your own pace.
Chronic Pain
I currently work in the pain management unit at St Thomas’ Hospital in London and I use different techniques to help people accept and cope with the condition in a way that feels authentic for them, with the goal of having a happier life. Have you had an accident or experienced a trauma that has left you anxious and in pain? Or maybe you are in pain but you can’t find the cause?
I understand that sometimes it can feel overwhelming trying to understand how you fit into the world now that you are living with chronic pain. Especially when you might not ‘look’ like you are in pain to others. Day to day tasks that used to be easy are now challenging and require a lot of energy. Maintaining your identity with this chronic condition may feel like a struggle, and perhaps you feel alone in the fight. That is where I can help.
Together, we will explore your experiences and the issues you are facing and we will seek to understand the triggers and overall impact on your quality of life. By adopting an integrative approach that combines many therapeutic techniques, we will address how this pain has impacted your mental and physical wellbeing and learn new ways to cope with the pain in a way that is manageable for you. Then, we will decide on the best way forward to empower you and help you regain control of your life.